With a limited number of resale clothing stores offered in the area, Tosha Barker had long dreamed of opening a shop that could offer merchandise at a portion of the price found at big box stores.

A couple of weeks ago her dream came true.

On Aug. 29, Barker opened the Nilly Clothing Exchange at 2527 S. 11th St., in Niles.

The resale store offers clothing for all ages, sizes and genders, as well as boots, purses, scarves and other merchandise. For the Halloween season, a number of costumes are also available.

“This building became available and I said, ‘It’s time,’” Barker said. “I just want people to come here and have a pleasant experience and leave here with a garment they would not have found maybe somewhere else.”

Customers can also bring their clothes in exchange for money or store credit. The return percentage will depend on the sale online, quality and condition of the clothing. Unlike consignment, Barker plans to offer customers their money up front, instead of when their items sell. Currently, customers get their money within four to eight weeks, but once she is more established Barker said she plans to pay up front. Store credit can be used at any time.

“I am not trying to make a million dollars of this business. That is never going to happen,” Barker said. I am just trying to be there for the families that need it and those that are there to support it.”

Those who wish to donate clothing are invited to do so. Gently used items will be accepted.

Prior to the clothing being available on the sales floor, Barker said she washes and steams every item.

With the aim to recognize the Niles area while referencing an insider youth term, Barker’s store name is inspired by the nickname for Niles, “The Nilly.”

While the store is Barker’s first endeavor into owning her own business, Barker is no stranger to customer service. For 21 years, she worked for the family-owned Plaza Restaurant as a server. The business was formerly owned by her grandparents and Barker’s parents also owned their own restaurant for a time being.

Barker is still working as a server at the restaurant, where she said she has helped to spread the word about her newly opened business. She also works concessions at the Niles Scream Park.

Balancing three jobs is never easy, but Barker said it is worth it to have her own business.

Throughout her life, Barker at times has been a single mother. This experience partially motivated her to open a clothing store that would offer affordable and high quality or name brand clothing to children, as well as adults.

“I know what it is like to raise kids. They are expensive,” Barker said. “They want that high dollar stuff and we offer that here at an affordable price.”

In addition to offering lower prices, Barker also plans to offer a number of discounts for the sale savvy resident. Each Sunday through September and part of October, Barker said she will offer Sunday Fun Day discounts, where those shopping will have the opportunity to draw a coupon between 10 to 25 percent off. Additionally, first-time customers will receive a 10 percent off coupon to use on their next purchase.

“If I can make someone happy by being able to give them a little bit off, that makes my day to see someone else smile,” Barker said.

So far, Barker said customers have responded favorably to the store.

“The response has been great,” Barker said. “I am so grateful.”

Barker also thanked the building owner Betty Shivily for helping her by not only leasing her clothing racks and grids, but also for encouraging her when Barker was still considering the decision to open the store.

“She said, ‘I believe in you,’” Barker said. “She said, ‘this town needs something like that.’”

Barker hopes to have a grand opening ceremony in October. A final date will be announced at a later time.